Breeding cattle now eligible for Egypt

And here we go for Round 3.

The live cattle trade to Egypt was suspended in February 2006 after footage emerged showing Australian cattle having their eyes stabbed and rear leg tendons slashed to incapacitate them; the suspension was lifted in May 2009 after the construction of a state-of-the-art "closed loop" feedlot and abattoir and iron-clad assurances that animals would be well-treated.

In May last year, trade was suspended again after footage was supplied by an Egyptian vet, showing Australian cattle being stabbed in the eyes and having their rear leg tendons slashed to incapacitate them. There was also horrific footage of cattle being slaughtered in incorrectly operated full inversion slaughter boxes - these boxes are banned in Australia, USA and the UK because of the pain and trauma they cause the cattle.

Now, the Australian Government and live export industry has ssen fit to re-open the supply again with breeder cattle, sheep and goats available for supply now and feeder and slaughter animals (one assumes cattle and goats only, as the live sheep trade to Egypt was banned indefinitely in December 2006) available after the finalisation of health certifications.

Contrary to industry claims, opening up trade again to countries with a history of animal abuse generally, and abuse of imported Australian sheep and cattle specifically, does not contribute to improved animal handling practices, nor does it contribute to improved staff competency and awareness of animal needs and requirments. What it does do, is send a very clear message that Australia condones the abuse of vulnerable animals: Oh dear... Egypt is slashing tendons and stabbing eyes again - here, have some more cattle.

Egypt is one of several countries which should never again be sent live animals... by anyone.